This study investigated the characteristics of main house food cultures in Gyeonggi-do using a case study on the head family. The subject of this study was selected through an advisory committee of experts; it incorporated intangible and tangible elements of the main family based on relevant data. Selected representative main house of Gyeonggi-do had 12 parts in total. The entire investigation was conducted in five parts; literature search, telephone survey, in-depth interviews, inheritance food research of the head family, and cuisine demonstrations. Twelve families within the researched family clan had members of high merit or scholarly reputation qualified enough to serve bulcheonwi, a form of important religious worship. Food in Gyeonggi-do, specifically, can be served for Bongjesa jeopbingaek, which is a combination of performance of ancestral rites and greeting guests. Meat ingredients were frequently used. Articles of clothing were colorful and vivid, with wootgi that needed lots of work. Soup and steamed dishes tended to favor simple but fresh tastes that come with their cultural and historical context.

The research aimed to provide accurate and basic data comparing different perceptions of head family’s food and food for religious ceremonies depending on age with the goal of sustaining traditional Korean food in the future. The gender distribution of the participants was 274 Males (42.5%) and 370 Females (57.5%). Age distribution was 211 participants (32.7%) in their 20s, 215 participants (33.3%) in their 30 to 40s, and 220 participants (34%) in their 50 to 60s. The older generation appeared to beaware of the definition of head family or 'The eldest’s house of head family’ as well as the concept of one’s family five generations ago with more reductive and emphasis than imaginary concept of head family of the younger generation. The image of the head family was perceived as ‘head family’s food’ in younger generations and as ‘eldest son’ in older generations. Family role and meaning most often manifested as ‘succession of tradition’ and ‘cultural symbols’ in younger generations, respectively, whereas older generations responded ‘hallmark of the head family’. Family ancestral rites and head family’s food had positive effects on awareness of head family’s food. Moreover, those with experience in practicing family ancestral rites responded that head family’s food should be more popular. People who viewed family’s food more positively were more open with the idea thathead family’s food could go mainstream. In conclusion, positive perception of head family’s food and traditional pride are crucial environmental factors in public support of popularizing head family's food to the public.